Former Rivers Governor Ada George has accused the Federal Capital Territory Secretary (FCT) of being currently rocking the state’s political unrest and accused the minister of being behind the imposition and appointment of the sole executive in all 23 local government areas in a controversial state of emergency.
Ada George, who served as governor from 1992 to 1993, now chairs the River Elders and Leaders Forum, made his claims in media briefings following the latest developments in the state’s political crisis. He accused the FCT minister of trying to ignite instability under his failure to political control over the state’s leadership.
“The Secretary of FCT is the architect of all these things,” George said. “He could set the fire state and the governor did not share his point of view. That’s exactly what I think he was trying to do in Rivers State. Enough. We’re not going to allow him to cast Rivers State State.”
He claimed the minister was in River State shortly before the controversial announcement was released. “It was reported that he arrived here on Monday night on the 7th, and military administrators were visited throughout the place. Then, the news passed.”
His appointment as the sole administrator was unconstitutional and posed a clear threat to democracy. “There are legal procedures that constitute local government leadership. This action undermines these principles.”
In expressing the forum’s commitment to a peaceful solution, the elder’s politician warned that the river will not be idle in the face of ongoing provocation. “We cannot do physical action…but we will resist in any form that will destroy or confuse this state.”
Despite the heightened tensions, George noted that the forum initially hoped that the ministers would take a path to reconciliation. “We hope he can negotiate with stakeholders to build peace, calm tensions and resolve issues between the two parties, rather than escalate them,” he said.
George quoted Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, the first president of Nigeria, and called on stakeholders to remain calm and patient: “Surulere, Surulere” – Patience, keep silent.
He also revealed that the River Elders Forum had written letters to Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike at the beginning of the crisis, but neither responded. “We did communicate with both parties in writing…but unfortunately, we did not receive any politeness in response to any reply.”
George reiterated the Forum’s commitment to legal procedures and legal remedies. “We will go to court when necessary. Currently we have cases in court and we will continue,” he said.
